Booking a campervan in Australia sounds like a nightmare for first-time travelers. Who wants to waste hours comparing websites and discovering surprise fees at the last minute?
This guide cuts through the confusion. We’ll show you exactly how to book your dream campervan without the headache.
Imagine hitting Australia’s open roads with zero stress. No complicated paperwork. No unexpected charges. Just pure adventure waiting to unfold.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to choose the perfect vehicle, compare providers like a pro, and avoid the common mistakes that trip up most travelers.
Step 1: Understanding Campervan Types in Australia
Not all campervans are created equal. Matching your vehicle to your travel style matters more than price.
Not sure how these compare price-wise?
👉 Here’s a full breakdown of campervan rental costs in Australia — including hidden fees, seasonal rates, and sample trip budgets.
Budget Backpacker Vans
Perfect for travelers watching their wallet:
- Fold-out bed design
- Basic portable cooking gear
- Minimal storage space
- No bathroom facilities
Budget vans run $40-70 daily. Brands like Jucy and Travellers Autobarn specialize in these wallet-friendly options.
Pro tip: These vans offer better fuel economy and easier city parking. The trade-off? You’ll depend on campsite facilities for showers and bathrooms.
Self-Contained Campervans
The sweet spot between comfort and adventure:
- Fixed bed with dining area conversion
- Kitchen with gas stove and sink
- Small refrigerator
- Onboard toilet/basic shower
- Solar or dual battery systems
Priced $80-120 daily, these vans meet “self-contained” certification requirements. Australia.com notes this certification unlocks numerous free camping opportunities across the country.
Luxury Motorhomes
For travelers who want comfort on wheels:
- Multiple sleeping areas (4-6 people)
- Full bathroom
- Comprehensive kitchen
- Living/dining spaces
- Climate control
Daily rates hit $130-250+. CamperChamp warns these 20-28 foot vehicles require confident driving skills. Tips on driving a Motorhome as first timers in this post from Apollo. And Avida has an article about “What Size Motorhome Can I Drive?”.
“Not sure which vehicle fits your travel style?
👉 Check out our in-depth comparison of campervan, motorhome, and 4WD options — including pros, cons, costs, and real road trip use cases across Australia.”
Step 2: Planning Your Route and Timing
Choosing Start and End Points
Australia’s campervan hotspots include:
- Sydney (most options, highest prices)
- Melbourne (Great Ocean Road access)
- Brisbane (Fraser Island gateway)
- Cairns (tropical north Queensland)
- Perth (Western Australia base)
One-way rentals offer flexibility but typically add $200-500 in relocation fees. You can find one-way Rental here at DriveNow.
Travel Smart: Tourism Australia recommends limiting daily drives to 200-300 kilometers. Use CamperMate to discover campgrounds and attractions.
Understanding Seasonal Variations
Australia’s camping seasons dramatically impact your trip:
- Peak Season (November-March): Perfect beach weather. Expect premium pricing and 7-10 day minimum rentals.
- Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Mild weather, fewer crowds, moderate pricing.
- Off-Peak (June-August): Lowest prices, but cold nights in southern regions. Weather Zone warns about potential freezing temperatures inland.
Step 3: Comparing Providers Smartly
Stop wasting hours checking dozens of websites. Here’s how to compare efficiently.
Key Comparison Factors for Smart Travelers
Look beyond daily rates:
- Vehicle age: Newer vehicles (under 3-4 years) offer reliability
- Included kilometers: Many rates restrict you to 100-150km daily
- Insurance coverage: Basic policies often carry $3,000-5,000 excess
- Roadside assistance: Critical for remote travel
Van2Life simplifies this process by connecting travelers with vetted local vendors and transparent pricing.
→ Let us find you the best budget-friendly campervans — no stress, no crap.
Understanding True Rental Costs
Watch for these hidden fees:
- Preparation/cleaning fees: $50-150
- Admin/booking fees: $25-75
- One-way fees: $200-500
- Young driver surcharges: $10-30 daily
- Extra driver fees: $5-10 daily
- GPS/WiFi devices: $8-15 daily
Real-world example: Sarah’s “$65/day” campervan ballooned to $115/day after add-ons.
Step 4: Navigating the Booking Process
Payment and Deposit Basics
Standard Australian rental process:
- Reserve with 10-20% deposit
- Receive booking confirmation
- Pay balance 30-60 days before pickup
- Provide credit card security hold ($1,500-3,000)
Security Deposit Hold (Apollo Example)
Most major rental companies, like Apollo Campers, place a security bond (also called a credit card hold) when you pick up your vehicle. This amount can vary depending on your insurance level — typically ranging from $250 to $7,500.
Apollo states that if no damage is reported, the hold is released within 7–14 business days after vehicle drop-off. Delays can happen depending on your bank’s processing times and international credit card policies.
🔎 For the most accurate and updated details, check Apollo’s official Terms & Conditions or call their customer support before booking.
Required Documentation
Bring these to avoid pickup delays:
- Valid driver’s license
- International Driving Permit (if needed)
- Passport
- Credit card in main driver’s name
Smart Traveller requires non-English licenses to carry an International Driving Permit.
Step 5: Smart Add-ons Worth Considering
Insurance Options Explained
Rental insurance breakdown:
- Standard liability: High excess ($3,000-5,000)
- Reduced liability: Lowers excess to $1,000-1,500
- Zero excess: Eliminates excess completely
- Windscreen/tire coverage: Often crucial for outback travel
Choice Australia suggests third-party alternatives might save money.
Valuable Equipment Add-Ons
Worth considering:
- Camping table and chairs
- Portable GPS
- Extra blankets for cooler months
Camplify recommends buying local supplies for longer trips.
Step 6: Final Checks Before Booking
Reservation Verification Checklist
Double-check:
- Exact pickup/drop-off details
- Vehicle specifications
- Total cost breakdown
- Cancellation policies
- Fuel policy
- Mileage allowances
Pickup Day Preparation
Ensure a smooth experience:
- Arrive early (1-2 hours for paperwork)
- Bring printed reservation documents
- Take detailed vehicle condition photos
- Test all systems before leaving
Conclusion
Booking a campervan doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right preparation, you’ll be exploring Australia’s incredible landscapes in no time.
Van2Life makes this process easier by connecting you with trusted local providers across Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Ready to Roll?
Not sure which van fits your trip? We’ve done this road trip ourselves — more than once, in fact. Whether you’re chasing surf breaks, desert stars, or eucalyptus-lined backroads, we’ll help you pick the perfect ride for your style and budget. No upsells. No BS. Just honest, road-tested advice.
Hit us up — we’ll help you pick the perfect ride (at no extra cost).
Frequently Asked Questions
What driving license do I need?
You need a valid full driver’s license from your home country. Non-English licenses require an International Driving Permit.
Are one-way rentals more expensive?
Yes, typically incurring $200-500 relocation fees. Transfer Car offers discounted options.
What’s the minimum rental period?
Most companies require 5-7 days during peak season, 3-5 days in shoulder seasons.
What if my campervan breaks down?
Comprehensive roadside assistance is crucial. RAA notes response times in remote areas can exceed 3-4 hours.
Are there driving restrictions?
Most agreements prohibit unsealed roads except for well-maintained camping ground access routes.
Rent or buy on a Working Holiday visa?
For stays over 3 months, buying might be more economical. Global-Gallivanting suggests breaking even around 90-120 days.
What is CDW?
Collision Damage Waiver is basic insurance with high excess. Consider reducing excess for longer trips.
